If All Combined, What Would the GOP look like?

Tea Party, Independents, Libertarians, Moderates, Conservatives-these are all names that fall under the big umbrella of the Republican party. What would happen if all of these party’s combined, and a brand new Republican party emerged. To start, let’s look at the ideologies and principles that differentiate the factions.

Tea Party-This group was founded during George W. Bush’s presidency, and was in response to the big conservative overreach. Bush gave tax breaks to big corporations, and thus hurt small businesses which make the backbone of America. This group is also very much against Obamacare, Pro Choice, and other socially liberal movements. They want a limited government, but also do not want America to sway from its traditional, conservative values. Their hard line social advocacy more often than not overshadows their economic policies, which is limited taxation and government overreach.

Independents- Those who are basically Republican, but sometimes do not believe in all of the social values of the far right. They vote normally based on the person running for office, and are the target of most politicians during campaigns. Although they tend to lean fiscally conservative, they have a harder time swallowing other ideologies that usually go hand in hand with more conservative candidates . For example, they may believe in limited taxation, but also might want less money spent on defense.

Libertarians- Limited, limited government. A loyal following to politicians such as former Congressman Ron Paul, many don’t even want foreign involvement. “Get out of my bedroom, and get out of my wallet,” is the basic slogan for this group. Some go as far to not even believe in aligning with a party, but the limited taxation policies of Republicans draws them to vote for red during the election cycle.

Moderates- Socially liberal, but fiscally conservative, moderates can see both sides of the aisle, but are lean more to the right side. The more conservative groups can sometimes ostracize moderate voters from the Republican party, but they still believe in a strong defense, limited government, and limited taxes. They do, however, believe in reforms such as immigration and healthcare, but may not associate themselves with either the left or the rights resolutions. According to political analyst, Charlie Cook, it is these moderates that the Republican party should cater to. Politicians such as Governor Christie fall under this category, for he pushes bipartisan reforms that lean more to the right, but also believe in pro-choice and other socially liberal philosophies.

Conservatives- This party has emerged as a real backbone to the Republican ideology, and want limited taxes and limited social reforms. This group has also become the champion to big corporations, as seen through the Bush administration years. They want a strong military, but also tax breaks.

All of the aforementioned groups have some part of the basic Republican ideology. A strong defense, limited government, limited taxation, and a strong economy. How you hit each of these goals has resulted in the different factions within the GOP, and there seems to be a battle of rhetoric to as how to incorporate everyone. The focus, therefore, should be first and foremost on restoring America’s economy to its full potential. Limited taxes are one key idea that transmits through all different factions, and should be what unites voters. The Republican party believe in the American dream, and allowing people options. Tax reform and the ability for small businesses to grow should be pushed by all groups. As 2015 ends, these ideas will hopefully funnel into one party, so as to be prepared for 2016.